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Description
The project aims to increase the energy production from renewable sources, reduce CO2 emissions and increase the security of supply. The project will achieve these objectives by implementing infrastructure works (construction and mining of geothermal sources) on the well Korenovo GT-1 to exploit geothermal energy, with the ultimate planned combined use of produced energy (district heating and commercial use). Geothermal energy obtained from the Korenovo GT - 1 well will be used for heating purposes to supply the planned sport and recreation complex in Veliki Korenovo with thermal energy, future Korenovo Business Zone, and planned greenhouse agricultural production in the Veliko Korenovo area.
The City of Bjelovar will work with two partners: Terme Bjelovar d.o.o and Efla from Iceland. The end-beneficiaries of this project are users of the sport and recreation complex services, entrepreneurs in the Korenovo Business Zone and farmers who will use geothermal energy for production. All residents of the local area where the project is being implemented will benefit due to air quality increase, CO2 emissions reduction, and economic development.
There are three activities through which the project will be implemented:
1. Pilot project - construction or revitalization of production and injection wells in areas with a valid permit for exploration and/or extraction of geothermal waters.
2. Project management and administration activities.
3. Promotion and visibility activities.
Summary of project results
The project "Increased geothermal energy production capacity - infrastructural activities at the drillhole Korenovo GT-1" aimed to tackle several significant challenges related to renewable energy in Croatia. The key issue was the underutilization of geothermal energy resources in the Bjelovar region, despite their significant potential. The lack of infrastructure for geothermal energy extraction and the absence of necessary technical documentation were major barriers. Additionally, there was a need to reduce CO2 emissions and align energy production with Croatia’s climate goals. The project also sought to demonstrate the economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy to local stakeholders and improve air quality for the community.
The project undertook a series of activities to prepare and implement infrastructure works for the Korenovo GT-1 geothermal well. The primary achievement was the construction of an exploratory geothermal well with a planned depth of 1,500 meters, ultimately reaching a depth of 1,295 meters due to achieving the desired research goals. The well was designed for a maximum capacity of 25 liters per second, with geothermal water temperatures reaching 40°C, resulting in an installed capacity of 5 MW of thermal energy. Project management was conducted throughout the implementation period, including procurement processes and coordination among project stakeholders. The management team involved external experts, ensuring that activities such as monitoring and oversight of works were carried out effectively. Infrastructure works at the Korenovo site included preparing a work area of 27,981 m², constructing a drill site, and executing well drilling in three phases. The project also tested the economic feasibility of geothermal water extraction. The construction of the well was completed without incidents and met all technical and safety regulations, making it a model for future renewable energy projects in Croatia. Communication activities included the organization of an opening and closing conference to share project achievements with the public. A promotional campaign was conducted, featuring printed materials (bags, leaflets, notebooks, and pencils, among others), specialized radio broadcasts, and online updates. The project was highlighted on the City of Bjelovar’s official website, with information available in both Croatian and English.
The project achieved significant results that directly benefit the local community, public institutions, and businesses. The construction of the geothermal well established an installed capacity of 5 MW, with an estimated annual production of 25,920 MWh of thermal energy. This will contribute to reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 3,500 tons annually. The results provide a foundation for supplying renewable energy to the planned Korenovo Business Zone, a new recreational and sports complex, and agricultural facilities, including greenhouses.
Local residents and businesses in the Bjelovar region will benefit from improved air quality, reduced energy costs, and enhanced economic development. The project also raised awareness about renewable energy through workshops and promotional activities, fostering a culture of sustainability. The well’s infrastructure will support future investments and serve as a model for integrating geothermal energy into local economies.
Summary of bilateral results
The Icelandic partner, EFLA Consulting Engineers, brought invaluable expertise in geothermal energy, ensuring the technical aspects of the project met international standards. The partnership included a study trip to Iceland, where project stakeholders observed operational geothermal energy systems and gained insights into best practices. EFLA’s guidance in preparing technical documentation and addressing project challenges strengthened the overall implementation and provided knowledge transfer to Croatian stakeholders. Bilateral cooperation resulted in a successful exchange of knowledge and best practices. The study trip to Iceland facilitated hands-on learning about geothermal energy infrastructure and operational systems. Bilateral workshops and consultations enhanced the capacity of Croatian stakeholders, including the City of Bjelovar and Terme Bjelovar, to manage and promote renewable energy projects. The success of this project has established strong ties between the City of Bjelovar and EFLA Consulting Engineers. Future initiatives may include joint projects, further development of geothermal energy infrastructure, and the establishment of a Center of Excellence in Bjelovar to serve as a hub for geothermal energy innovation and education.